Syria: Turkish-backed forces claim control over Saraqib

M/S Militants, Saraqib
W/S Deserted streets of Saraqib
W/S Deserted streets of Saraqib
M/S Militants
M/S Flag used by militarised opposition on wall
M/S Militants
M/S Militants
W/S Deserted streets of Saraqib
M/S Sign reading "Saraqib primary health care centre"
C/U Sign reading "Saraqib primary health care centre"
W/S Deserted streets of Saraqib
W/S Main road outside Saraqib
W/S Main road outside Saraqib
SCRIPT
Turkish-backed militant groups operating in Syria claimed they had regained control over the strategic town of Saraqib on Thursday, only three weeks after its recapture by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA).
According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) the SAA has launched counter-attacks against 'Al-Nusra Front' affiliated groups who "infiltrated" into the surroundings of Saraqib International Highway.
Footage shows armed men believed to be members of the Turkish-backed militant groups patrolling the town on foot with streets deserted and buildings left empty.
In recent days clashes between the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and Turkish-backed militants in Idlib countryside intensified as the latter sought to regain its lost control over the town, which lies strategically on the intersection of the M5 and M4 highways.
On Wednesday, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, addressing the Turkish Parliament, "we will not take the slightest step back in Idlib," adding Turkey will soon find a way to use airspace in its battle over Idlib.
Ankara's increased military presence in Idlib came after the SAA announced it had regained full control over the towns and villages surrounding Aleppo as well as several villages in Idlib countryside.